The Truth About Temptation James 1:12–18 (NIV) — 12 Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him. 13 When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; 14 but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. 15 Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death. 16 Don’t be deceived, my dear brothers and sisters. 17 Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. 18 He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created. God is not the of temptation. James 1:13 When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; Temptation comes from our own evil : James 1:14 but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. A temptation , gives birth to sin. James 1:15 Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; A Few Truths About Temptation: Being tempted is not a : Hebrews 4:15 tells us that Jesus was tempted in every way, yet did not sin. 1 Corinthians 10:13 No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it. Temptation is common to people. Our faithful God promises to provide a of temptation. Full grow sin gives birth to . ...and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death. So here is the very useful question: Where will this temptation take me? God is the source of all that gives life. James 1:16-18 Don’t be deceived, my dear brothers. 17Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, 18He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created. Application: Admit that the thing that tempts you is not your . Admit that some broken part of you evil. John 3:19-21 This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. 20Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed. Write down where this temptation will ultimately if you give in to it. Turn to the and other believers for forgiveness and power. 1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. James 5:16 Therefore, Confess your sins to one another and pray for one another so that you might be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.